Fayette County Man Jailed On Sexual Abuse Charges

A man living in West Union is charged with two counts of felony sexual abuse and faces possible deportation for allegedly performing multiple sex acts on a pre-teen girl.

According to Fayette County sheriff's officials, an investigation led to the arrest of Pedro Candido, 41, on Wednesday (June 15, 2016). Authorities said Candido performed multiple sex acts on an 11-year-old and later repeated the crime on the same girl after she turned 12.

The victim is being monitored by the Iowa Department of Human Services and is working with the girl's family.

Candido is charged with second-degree sexual abuse (Class-B felony) and third-degree sexual abuse (Class-C felony) in connection with the incidents. He was taken to the Fayette County Jail in West Union, where he's being held on a no-bond warrant.

Officials said they also determined that Candido was in the United States illegally. Fayette County sheriff's officials said they are working with the Department of Homeland Security to determine Candido's legal status.

According to authorities, the case remains an open investigation. Sheriff's officials indicated that more charges could be filed at a later date.

If convicted of the current charges against him, Candido could serve up to 75 years in prison and would also be required to register as a sex offender. Candido could also face deportation from the United States.